Ok, so I'm the millionth person to ask for advise about buying a first-time mtb... bear with me, please.
I just visited a cycle shop and threw down my vitals to the salesman; I'm 31, 190 lbs, 32" inseam, looking to buy a reliable, but not fancy mtb in the $500 range for moderate trails and some in-town riding.
He immediately took me to the Diamondback Topanga; 7005 alum frame, 4" Rockshox Judy front end, 27 spd Shimano w/ Deore derailer. He made a good pitch, but I'm far from done with my research.
So here's what puzzles me. In reading lots of forums (here and elsewhere) I NEVER hear anyone talk about the Diamondback line of bikes. Are they that crappy or obscure, or am I just shooting cheaper than most other posters?
Also, I'm hearing lots of great things about Rockshox and Shimano for components. Are they that reliable, or are there other just-as-good alternatives?
Thanks for any help!
